Military kills bandits in Plateau, Benue, recovers arms

The Nigerian military has recorded fresh victories against bandits in Plateau and Benue States, killing several criminals and recovering arms during separate operations.

In Plateau, troops of the 3 Division/Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace (JTF OPEP) ambushed bandits in Odare Forest, Dutsen Zaki, Wase Local Government Area, on September 16.

The spokesman for the task force, Major Samson Zhakom, said the operation was intelligence-driven.

Troops engaged bandits riding motorcycles into the forest, killing one while others fled with gunshot wounds.

“Troops recovered one motorcycle, two mobile phones, a machete, and charms abandoned by the fleeing criminals. These items are in custody for further action,” Zhakom said.

He added that on September 15, troops acting on credible intelligence launched an offensive at bandit crossing points around Garga, Showaka, Yuli, and Kukawa villages in Wase and Kanam LGAs.

The troops, he said, overpowered the bandits through “superior firepower and professionalism,” recovering a G3 rifle, a magazine, and three rounds of 7.62mm  ammunition.

According to him, the recent onslaughts are part of the JTF’s mandate to deny bandits freedom of action and ensure they are neutralised.

In Benue State, troops of the Defence Special Operations Force under Operation Whirl Stroke  neutralised a criminal at Afia Market in Ukum LGA on Tuesday.

Acting Media Information Officer, Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, said the soldiers recovered one AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and three rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

In a related operation, troops deployed at Ayilamo outpost in Logo LGA repelled armed herders who opened fire at Tse Anema Village on Monday.

Zubairu said the troops also pursued armed herders spotted in nearby Azege village, where cattle had ravaged farmlands. Two suspects uprooting yams fled on sighting the troops, who later discovered another farm of soybeans destroyed.

He said OPWS has intensified patrols in the area to prevent further attacks and safeguard farmers.

Force Commander, Maj. Gen. Moses Gara, commended the troops for their swift response and charged them to recover more weapons from criminals to prevent attacks on civilians.